Ask an Agent
Have a question? We're here to help.
Ask an agent for free
Question

I swerved to miss a deer in the road, wrecked my car, and now my insurance company is saying that I'm considered at fault. Why is that?

The deer probably had a family somewhere and I love animals so I swerved to save the deer and wrecked in the ditch. I wasn't hurt or anything but my company is calling it an accident even though there was a deer in the road. How is this my fault?

Jul 28, 2021 Newton, KS

Answer
Author profile picture
The Zebra
The nation's leading independent insurance comparison site

The Zebra is an independent insurance advisor and quote comparison site with headquarters in Austin, Texas. Utilizing its real-time quote comparison …

Hitting an animal in the road falls under the category of a comprehensive insurance claim because animals do not follow road laws and can't be expected to avoid cars or roadways. It's the same general principle as hail damage. The incident changes to an at fault accident when you swerve to avoid the animal because the maneuver you chose to make caused the accident. Generally speaking, the resulting damage from hitting a deer is far less than the potential damage of driving off the roadway at a high rate of speed and having an accident.
Ask an Agent
Have a question? We're here to help.
Ask an agent for free

Insurance is complicated, but it doesn't have to be.

The Zebra searches all of the top insurance companies, in one place, so you can compare the cost and coverage you need to protect your car, home and other property.

Step 1: Tell us a little about yourself

Choose an insurance product and enter your zip code to get started.

Step 2: Sip your coffee while we find the best quotes

Enter the necessary information and then sit back while we find quotes from 100 top insurance carriers.

Step 3: Compare your quotes

Compare quotes side-by-side to find the right match for you, whether it's home, auto, or more.

Step 4: Let our agents do the hard work for you

Once you pick your policy, our agents are here to get you over the finish line. Then just relax and enjoy your savings.

Compare insurance rates today!

Pin
Shield checkmark No junk mail. No spam calls. Free quotes.

Related Questions

Other people are also asking...

Do I claim my stolen vehicle with Lyft or GEICO?

One of the companies should be covering you via your comprehensive coverage. Check out our page on Lyft's insurance requirements for more information. If they are not wanting to provide coverage, you can seek legal advice to see if you have any other options. Good luck and if you have any questions…
Feb 24, 2023 Houston, TX

Someone gave me the wrong insurance information after a claim

Start by reporting the accident to your own insurance company as soon as possible, even if the damage looked minor and you did not call the police at the scene. Give them the photos, the other driver’s contact information, and the insurance card they provided. Your insurer can help verify whether t…
Apr 16, 2026 Machesney Park, IL

Is it considered an at-fault accident if I hit a tree?

This is considered a single-vehicle accident which is considered at-fault. Unfortunately, in this instance, insurance companies would prefer that you not swerve to avoid a collision. Sadly, this can sometimes mean hitting the animal. If you hit the animal it would be considered a comprehensive clai…
Aug 8, 2025 Coos Bay, OR

Does my son-in-law's military status (Marine) qualify me as USAA member?

USAA eligibility flows to spouses and children, not parents or in-lawsIt is my understanding that USAA eligibility flows "downstream" – which means you need to be a child or spouse of an established member to get a USAA policy. Therefore parents, or in your case in-laws, of USAA members are likely …
Feb 27, 2026 Austin, TX